Allium ursinum - Wild Garlic

A wild relative of chives and native to Europe and Asia, known commonly as Wild Garlic or Ramsons. Allium ursinum carpets damp woodland in April and May with a display of round white, star-shaped flowers and broad long leaves. All parts are edible, the leaves can be eaten in salads or lightly cooked but be sure that there is no mistake in the identification as other similar leaves, such as Lily-of-the-Valley or Wild Arum (Lords and Ladies) are poisonous. If you're in doubt, just smell the leaves and the strong smell of garlic will convince you that it is in fact wild garlic.

Prefers woodland conditions in a moist well-drained soil, but beware Allium ursinum can be invasive as it spreads rapidly in favorable conditions.

Site: Prefers a sheltered spot
Soil: Any moist but well-drained
Position: Part shade preferred but will grow in deep shade or sun
Planting Period: Bulbs in Autumn, Potted plants in Spring
Flowering Period: White flowers in April & May
Planting: Depth 1” (2.5 cm)
Height: 1ft (30cm)